Turning Points

So were coming into a new year and ready to make some resolutions. Usually people make resolutions to improve their health and deciding to quit smoking is one of those choices. The hard part is that after a few weeks we give in to the temptation and say "oh well, maybe next year".

We all need turning points in our lives to make us really go the extra mile. In July of 2008 my younger brother Jerome was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. His outcome was rather bleak and didn't seem any better when he started treatment. At the time I had been a smoker for about 10 years but it wasn't until I made a visit at Thanksgiving that I knew I had to do something. You see Jerome taught me the value of life and how precious every moment is. Thanks to him I have been smoke free for over a year now.

As for Jerome, so far he has won his battle and is in remission. Coming from a large family we also learned that saying I love you has meaning and not empty words. We speak often and try to see each other when we can, but until then I remain smoke free and hope I can inspire others to do the same.

Good Luck and Stay Positive!